The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has announced that employers who fail to provide accommodation and transportation for corps members posted to their organisations will be blacklisted from participating in the scheme.
The Director-General of the NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, made the disclosure during an interactive session with corps members on a working visit to Kogi State, according to a statement shared on the scheme’s official social media platforms on Tuesday.
Nafiu said employers have a responsibility to ensure the welfare of corps members, warning that organisations that neglect to provide accommodation and transport would no longer be allowed to benefit from NYSC postings.
He urged employers to prioritise the welfare of corps members, noting that improved support would enhance their productivity and overall well-being throughout the service year.
The NYSC boss also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding the security and welfare of corps members, while calling on state governments, local government authorities and other stakeholders to strengthen their support for the scheme.
Emphasising that security is a collective responsibility, Nafiu advised corps members to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the appropriate security agencies.
He also encouraged them to remain disciplined, committed to their duties and avoid actions capable of damaging the reputation of the NYSC.
The Director-General further urged corps members to actively participate in the post-camp Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, describing it as a pathway to self-reliance and financial independence.
He encouraged them to identify business opportunities within their host communities and begin generating income during their service year.
In view of the country’s economic realities, Nafiu also advised corps members to cultivate prudent financial habits by embracing a culture of saving and effective money management.
Speaking earlier, the NYSC Coordinator in Kogi State, Mrs Tochi Chika Chris-Moneke, praised the Director-General for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of his commitment to the welfare and security of corps members and staff.
She also revealed that the state secretariat plans to organise a workshop for corps employers and a Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers programme in the coming weeks.
